BUFFALO, N.Y. (WGRZ) — As you are driving this summer through construction zones, you might have noticed speed cameras.
According to the state’s website, the program was expanded last year to go through 2031, doubling the number of work zones that can be included. So chances are, you will drive past one of these speed cameras this summer.
Attorney Cory Missell represents clients who have gotten tickets through New York State’s Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement Program. He says the state recently expanded the program, so it can be used on any road the state is responsible for, not just major interstates.
Missell, senior counsel at Tully Rinckey PLLC, says so far, the state has issued more than 700,000 tickets through the program since it began and thinks defending the tickets is both interesting and complicated.
“Usually you are entitled under the law, under the constitution of New York, under the constitution of the United States, to confront your accuser, so typically, you would be able to confront the officer who issued the ticket on the stand, ask him questions. In this case, there is no officer that issued the ticket. It is a computer generated ticket,” Missell said.
He says you can’t cross examine a computer, so it’s tough.
The first time you get a ticket, it is a $50 fine. The second time, $75. After that, it’s $100. Missell says if you get one, you should not be surprised.
“There is a requirement that they notify you that there are cameras in place, that a camera speed monitoring station has been set up,” Missell said.
Missell also reminds drivers that even if work crews are not out working, you still have to obey the work zone speed limit.
“It is not up to the driver to look around and see if there are workers and determine if the work zone is active or not. If it is labeled, it is a work zone. Go the work zone speed limit,” Missell said.
